1971 Dodge Challenger vs. 1972 Dodge Challenger
To start off, 1972 Dodge Challenger is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Dodge Challenger (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1972 Dodge Challenger. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1972 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 125 kg more than 1972 Dodge Challenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Dodge Challenger (256 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (233 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Challenger | 1972 Dodge Challenger | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Challenger | Challenger |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 3678 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 256 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2810 mm |
